Roger Dean Scheffel

Published 11:23 am Wednesday, May 28, 2025

Roger Dean Scheffel, age 72, of Lyle, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on May 17, 2025, at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester, surrounded by his loving family.

Roger was born on April 24, 1953, at St. Olaf Hospital in Austin, Minnesota, to Richard and Minnie (Helle) Scheffel. He was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith, and grew up with strong values rooted in faith, family, and hard work.

A 1971 graduate of Lyle High School, Roger met the love of his life, DeAnn (Johnson) Scheffel, during those formative years. They were married on November 6, 1971, at Deer Creek Valley Lutheran Church in rural Glenville, Minnesota. Their marriage of over 53 years was filled with love, laughter, and a deep commitment to family. Together they raised four daughters, welcomed a foreign exchange daughter from Norway, and were blessed with six grandchildren who brought him immense joy. To Roger, family was everything.

Roger was a man known for his humor, resilience, generosity, and unwavering strength. He had a presence that filled every room—larger than life, yet always grounded in humility. To those who knew him, he was a legend, a mentor, and above all, a hero. With hands worn from years of labor, Roger embodied the spirit of a true farmer. His heart was as big as the land he worked—always ready to lend a hand to family, friends, and neighbors.

Farming wasn’t just Roger’s occupation—it was his calling. A lifelong dairyman and steward of the land, he took pride in nurturing both his crops and his beloved cattle. He raised numerous Grand Champion cows at the Mower County Fair and relished watching his daughters show cattle at county and state fairs—some of his proudest moments as a father. To know Roger was to know that no animal ever went hungry and the cows always “floated in straw.” He truly lived the values behind the phrase: “That’s why God made a farmer.”

Roger treasured the friendships he built over the years—bonds that shaped his life and brought him deep joy. Whether during a round table discussion, out snowmobiling, playing pool, or talking “smart,” Roger cherished every laugh and memory shared. These friendships, many of which felt like brotherhood, were among his greatest blessings.

Roger was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Minnie Scheffel; his brother Arnie Scheffel; his in-laws Deverne and Darlene Johnson; numerous aunts, uncles, close friends, and his loyal dog, Thunder.

He is survived by his devoted wife, DeAnn Scheffel of Lyle; daughters, Patty (Mark) Conradt of Rose Creek, Jenny Scheffel of Lyle, Mikky (Rod) Lange of Grand Meadow, Candy (Randy) Lahann of Austin, and exchange daughter, Reidun Skjelsvik of Norway; grandchildren, Carter Conradt, Ashley (Zane) Hiller, Braeden Scheffel (Zoe Achenbach), Garrett Lahann, Maggie, and Sadie Lange; sister, Judy Stark of Austin; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the exceptional doctors, nurses, and staff at Mayo Clinic for their years of care, which gave Roger five and a half more cherished years with his loved ones. Special thanks also to the Lyle First Responders for their unwavering support and to all the friends and family who have offered prayers, kindness, and strength throughout this time.

A celebration of Roger’s life will be held on June 21, 2025, on the family farm from 4pm to 7pm. A reminder with full details will be shared closer to the date.

Memorials may be directed to the Lyle First Responders or the Lyle Public School Trap Team—causes close to Roger’s heart.

Clasen-Jordan Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.